[Maro's in my Marrow]

Any Magnum round .357 and up will do the job. I personally use a S&W .44 mag and love it. The .44 Mag is the best balance of knockdown power and followup shot accuracy IMO. All of the magnums can be used for hunting but thats the 8" barrel and up variety. You need a short barrel w/ built in compensator to reduce muzzle climb and a Crimson Trace Laser Grip isn't a bad idea (for fast target acquisition). Hornady is a good ammo company. They don't offer a FMJ but a .44 mag hollow point will have enough penetration and do enough damage to bring down a bear. You gotta hit him in the right spots though (head or chest) don't wing him. You do have a better chance of being struck by lightning and most bears will run if they see or hear you coming but there is always a risk. Better to be prepared. If the bear is starving your gonna look like a meal and smell like trout LOL.